First 5 California names Anthony Pane acting executive director

First 5 California has named Chief Counsel Anthony Pane as acting executive director after Jackie Wong began leave on April 28, 2026. The move keeps the state children’s commission’s operations steady as it works toward early childhood health and development goals.

Why it matters: - First 5 California is one of the state’s main early childhood funding and policy bodies. - Anthony Pane’s appointment keeps leadership in place while Executive Director Jackie Wong is on leave. - The transition matters because First 5 California’s work affects services and support for children prenatal to age 5 and their families.

What happened: - The California Children and Families Commission, known as First 5 California, named Chief Counsel Anthony Pane as acting executive director. - Pane has overseen First 5 California’s day-to-day operations since Jackie Wong began leave on April 28, 2026. - The announcement was dated June 23, 2026, in Sacramento.

The details: - Pane has been providing continuity for the organization’s operations during Wong’s absence. - First 5 California said Pane has delivered mission-driven leadership and helped maintain progress toward the organization’s vision that California’s children receive the best possible start in life and thrive. - As acting executive director, Pane will lead operations and work toward the commission’s goal that all children prenatal to age five have safe, stable, nurturing relationships and environments needed for healthy development. - The commission said it is grateful for Pane’s leadership and for the work of the senior leadership team on behalf of California’s children and families. - First 5 California was created in 1998 after voters passed Proposition 10, which taxes tobacco products to fund services for children ages 0 to 5 and their families. - First 5 California programs and resources support parents, caregivers and teachers in helping children get the best possible start in life. - More information is available in the commission’s announcement.

Between the lines: - The appointment appears designed to signal stability rather than change. - Keeping a chief counsel in the top acting role suggests the commission wants continuity in both operations and legal oversight while Wong is out. - The emphasis on mission and continuity underscores how closely the organization ties leadership changes to service delivery for young children.

What's next: - Pane will run First 5 California’s operations until the commission makes a further leadership decision. - The commission did not announce a timeline for Wong’s return or for naming a permanent executive director. - First 5 California will continue its work supporting early childhood development across California.